VITEK® 2 software update makes lab workflow smoother than ever

Have you ever wondered what makes a microbiology laboratory instrument efficient? Efficiency comes from flexible, ergonomically designed instruments and software that enable effective process control and information flow – all with minimal user interaction.

These principles were the driving force behind the latest software update for bioMérieux’s VITEK® 2 instrument for automated identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (ID/AST). VITEK® 2 is considered the most efficient ID/AST system on the market with automated, standardized, same-day results1-6 and the shortest sample preparation time in the industry2,7-11.

Now, with the launch of VITEK® 2 Systems 8.01 software, users will be able to make even more effective use of their systems. The intuitive, secure, web-based, customizable software helps streamline lab workflow with multi-user access from virtually anywhere, anytime. This software update is an opportunity for lab managers to rethink lab workflow, promoting more efficient and timely sample preparation. VITEK® 2 Systems 8.01 software lets users:

Set up ID and AST cards remotely from any web-enabled computer without the Smart Carrier Station

Enjoy simultaneous, customizable setup of multiple cassettes

Review and approve isolate and patient information from any web-enabled PC

VITEK® 2 Systems 8.01 software includes many updated EUCAST and CLSI breakpoints to meet 2015 published guidelines. Fifteen new microorganism IDs (table 1) are also included in this software release.

In addition, VITEK® 2 systems 8.01 software will also be able to run cards containing the new antibiotic, ceftolozane/tazobactam. This antimicrobial enables determination of antimicrobial susceptibility to ceftolozane/tazobactam of Gram negative aerobic bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae and P. aeruginosa. This helps optimize treatment with Zerbaxa®, by Merck.

Ceftolozane from Merck is a new cephalosporin that inhibits the PBPs of P. aeruginosa(e.g., PBP1b, PBP1c and PBP3) and E. coli (e.g., PBP3). When combined with the beta-lactamase inhibitor tazobactam, in vitro activity against Enterobacteriaceae has been demonstrated with some ESBLs (TEM, SHV, CTX-M and OXA). The combination has also demonstrated in vitro activity against P. aeruginosa with chromosomal AmpC, OprD, MexXY and MexAB. For more information on ceftolozane/tazobactam, please visit the following website: https://www.zerbaxa.com/